Trains from Munich to Saalfelden am Steinernen Meer

German rail company Deutsche Bahn is known for its efficient and comfortable service. It offers many different types of rail transportation, including ICE or Intercity-Express for high-speed services between major cities and regions, IC (InterCity) for long-distance trains, RE (Regional Express) trains that connect regions and cities, and the S-Bahn rapid transit service. There are two main tickets on offer: the Flexpreis that has full flexibility, and the Sparpreis which is the cheaper, advanced fare (bookings usually open 6 months in advance for domestic tickets).

Deutsche Bahn’s EuroCity (EC) trains connect German cities to major cities in neighbouring European countries, and are operated in conjunction with their national train company. All EC trains offer First and Standard class; cars are air-conditioned and food and drinks are available onboard. Tickets can be booked up to 180 days in advance of travel. Seat reservations are not compulsory but are recommended for popular routes.

Deutsche Bahn’s high-speed InterCity (IC) trains connect cities within Germany. They’re a popular way to travel as they’re faster than Deutsche Bahn’s regional trains and offer a frequent, fast service. All IC trains have first and second class carriages, power sockets and toilets, and most have a bistro cafe or restaurant. Tickets can be booked up to 180 days in advance of travel.

Railjet trains operate domestically within Austria and also connect to major cities in Germany, Czech Republic, Italy, Switzerland and Hungary. This premium service runs at speeds of up to 230km/h and offers three travel classes (economy, first and business), all with free Wi-Fi and power sockets. Other amenities include a bistro-restaurant car and family zones. Seat reservations can be made up to 90 days prior to the train's departure (compulsory for all cross-border trains but not for domestic routes).

Austria's national railway system is not only punctual, reliable and efficient, but offers free wifi to boot. Choose from high-speed intercity Railjet trains, overnight Nightjet trains and regional services such as Cityjet. ÖBB also operates international routes that connect cities in Austria with adjacent European countries including Germany, Hungary, Liechtenstein, Czech Republic, Switzerland and Slovenia. If you're planning to be in Austria for a while, consider the ÖBB Vorteilscard, an annual railcard that offers discounts on routes within Austria and in neighbouring countries.

The national railway company of Switzerland, Swiss Railways operates trains throughout the country and adjacent European nations including Germany, France, Italy and Austria. Tickets are sold in two classes - First and Second - with most long-distance trains offering a bistro car serving beverages and snacks. Individual tickets can be bought easily at stands, while a variety of travel passes are on offer to suit different travel needs.